Paul Bradford
Ceist:134 Mr. Bradford asked the Minister for Finance the timetable for the programme of decentralisation promised in his budget speech. [26492/99]
Written Answers. - Decentralisation Programme.
In view of my announcement of the Government's intention to proceed with a new and radical round of decentralisations only last week, I am not yet in a position to outline a timetable for its implementation. The Deputy will appreciate that such an undertaking involves considerable preparation and planning. In the first instance I intend to bring proposals before my Government colleagues in consultation with whom I will identify those sections which are to be relocated and the provincial centres to which they are to be relocated. Thereafter there are considerable logistical arrangements to be put in place, including the training of staff and the provision of suitable accommodation. Because of the extent of the decentralisations proposed I will be anxious to ensure that the quality of service provided for the public is in no way compromised. Nonetheless the Deputy can be assured of my commitment to proceed with this new round of decentralisations without any undue delay.